Iniesta pays tribute to former Barcelona youth coach Vilaseca

Andres Iniesta paid tribute to former Barcelona youth coach Joan Martinez Vilaseca, who has died at the aged of 78.

Vilaseca, who played for Espanyol and Levante, spent almost 30 years with Barca as a coach and scout in the club’s famed Masia academy.

During his time at Barca, Vilaseca helped oversee the development of players who would go on to become household names, including Carles Puyol, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, Mikel Arteta and Iniesta.

Former Barca midfielder Iniesta was one of the first to pay tribute, with the 37-year-old, who currently plays for Vissel Kobe in Japan, posting a message on Twitter.

“Thanks to an excellent person who was always there helping us when we were children we arrived at La Masia, rest in peace, Joan,” Iniesta tweeted.

“Thank you very much for all your dedication to Barca. A lot of encouragement and a lot of strength to the family!!”